Keratitis

Keratitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye that covers the iris and pupil in guinea pigs. This condition involves inflammation of the corneal tissue, which can result from various causes including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections, physical trauma, chemical exposure, or underlying systemic conditions. The inflammation causes changes in the normally transparent cornea, leading to cloudiness, opacity, or other visible abnormalities that can significantly impair vision and cause considerable discomfort to affected guinea pigs.

Keratitis is a relatively common eye condition in guinea pigs, occurring with notable frequency due to several factors inherent to their housing and anatomy. Guinea pigs have large, prominent eyes positioned on the sides of their heads, providing excellent peripheral vision but also increasing exposure to environmental irritants and physical hazards. Their close proximity to bedding materials, hay particles, and cage substrates creates constant opportunity for corneal injury or irritation. Additionally, guinea pigs cannot blink as rapidly as some other species, leaving their corneal surface more vulnerable to drying and particulate contact.

The impact of keratitis on a guinea pig's health and quality of life ranges from mild discomfort with temporary vision disturbance to severe pain with permanent visual impairment, depending on the cause, severity, and promptness of treatment. The cornea is one of the most densely innervated tissues in the body, meaning corneal inflammation is inherently painful. Affected guinea pigs typically show obvious signs of ocular discomfort including squinting, tearing, and reluctance to open the affected eye. Because guinea pigs rely on vision for navigation, social interaction, and predator awareness, any compromise to corneal clarity can cause significant stress and behavioral changes.

Keratitis in guinea pigs is generally treatable when identified early and managed appropriately by a veterinarian experienced in exotic animal ophthalmology. Treatment success depends heavily on accurate identification of the underlying cause and prompt initiation of appropriate therapy. Bacterial keratitis requires antibiotic treatment, while other forms may need anti-inflammatory, antiviral, or antifungal medications. Without proper treatment, keratitis can progress to corneal ulceration, perforation, or permanent scarring that causes lasting vision loss. This makes early detection crucial, though challenging given guinea pigs' natural tendency to hide signs of illness until conditions become severe.

The primary causes of keratitis in guinea pigs encompass infectious agents, physical trauma, and environmental irritants. Bacterial infection is among the most common etiologies, with organisms including Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pseudomonas, and Pasteurella commonly implicated. These bacteria may colonize the cornea following minor trauma that disrupts the protective epithelial barrier, or they may spread from infections elsewhere in the eye or respiratory system. Fungal keratitis occurs less frequently but can be particularly aggressive and difficult to treat. Viral causes are less well-documented in guinea pigs than in some other species but may contribute to corneal inflammation in some cases.

Traumatic keratitis results from physical injury to the cornea through various mechanisms common in guinea pig environments. Hay pokes represent a frequent cause, as guinea pigs bury their faces in hay while foraging and sharp stem ends can scratch or puncture the corneal surface. Bedding particles, dust, and debris can abrade the cornea with repeated contact. Scratches from cage mates' nails during normal social interaction or during conflicts can damage the corneal epithelium. Wire cage components, rough edges on accessories, and other environmental hazards may cause direct corneal trauma. Self-inflicted injury from rubbing at an already irritated eye can worsen existing damage.

Environmental factors play a substantial role in keratitis development. Dusty or particulate bedding materials create constant low-grade corneal irritation that can progress to inflammation. Ammonia buildup from inadequate cage cleaning irritates all ocular surfaces and compromises the cornea's protective mechanisms. Low environmental humidity can lead to corneal drying, particularly in heated indoor environments during winter months. Poor ventilation concentrates airborne irritants and increases exposure. Chemical irritants from inappropriate cleaning products, aromatic bedding like cedar or untreated pine, or accidental exposure to household chemicals can cause direct corneal damage.

Risk factors for keratitis in guinea pigs include anatomical, health-related, and husbandry considerations. Guinea pigs with particularly prominent eyes may have increased corneal exposure and reduced protective coverage from the eyelids. Pre-existing eye conditions such as entropion (inward-turning eyelids) cause constant corneal irritation from eyelash contact. Vitamin C deficiency compromises tissue integrity and healing capacity, making guinea pigs more susceptible to corneal damage and slower to recover from injuries. Immunocompromised individuals, whether from age, concurrent illness, or chronic stress, have reduced ability to combat infectious agents. Upper respiratory infections can spread bacteria to the eyes through the nasolacrimal duct.

The mechanism of keratitis development begins with disruption of the cornea's normal protective barriers. The healthy corneal epithelium provides a smooth, intact surface that resists bacterial colonization and shields underlying tissue. When this barrier is breached by trauma, dried by inadequate tear film, or compromised by chemical exposure, bacteria and other pathogens can adhere to and invade the corneal stroma. The immune response to infection or injury causes the characteristic inflammatory changes: blood vessels that normally stop at the corneal margin may grow into the cornea (neovascularization), inflammatory cells infiltrate the tissue causing cloudiness, and fluid accumulation leads to corneal edema. These changes obscure the normally transparent cornea and can cause permanent structural damage if inflammation persists.

Early warning signs of keratitis in guinea pigs require careful observation to detect, as these prey animals instinctively minimize visible signs of vulnerability. Initial symptoms may include subtle changes in how the guinea pig holds or moves its eye, such as slightly increased blinking or brief squinting that quickly resolves. The affected eye may appear slightly more watery than usual as tear production increases in response to irritation. A guinea pig developing keratitis might show mild photosensitivity, preferring dimmer areas of the cage or turning away from bright light. Caregivers who regularly handle their guinea pigs may notice slight flinching or pulling away when approaching from the side of the affected eye.

As keratitis progresses, more obvious common symptoms become apparent. The hallmark sign is a change in corneal clarity, with the normally crystal-clear cornea developing cloudiness, haziness, or visible opacity. This may appear as a generalized grayish tinge or as localized white or gray spots on the corneal surface. The eye typically shows obvious increased tearing, with wetness on the fur below the eye and possible matting of facial hair. The affected eye often appears reddened due to blood vessel engorgement in surrounding tissues. Discharge may be present, ranging from clear and watery in early or viral cases to thick, yellow, or green with bacterial infection.

Behavioral changes associated with keratitis reflect the discomfort and visual compromise caused by the condition. Affected guinea pigs frequently squint or hold the affected eye partially or completely closed as a protective mechanism against light and further irritation. Activity levels typically decrease, with the guinea pig spending more time in hiding spots and showing reduced interest in exploration or play. Appetite may decline, particularly if the guinea pig is experiencing significant pain or if vision impairment makes locating food more difficult. Social behaviors often change, with affected individuals becoming withdrawn from cage mates or showing irritability when approached from their affected side.

Physical signs of keratitis extend beyond changes to the cornea itself. The eyelids may become swollen as inflammation spreads to surrounding tissues. Blepharospasm, or involuntary spasming and tight closure of the eyelids, indicates significant pain. The third eyelid (nictitating membrane) may become more visible as it partially covers the eye in a protective response. In cases of bacterial keratitis, mucoid or purulent discharge may accumulate in the eye corners or along the eyelid margins. Blood vessels growing into the normally avascular cornea create visible red lines crossing the corneal surface, a sign called corneal neovascularization.

Symptom progression of untreated keratitis follows a concerning trajectory. Initial mild cloudiness and discomfort worsen as inflammation intensifies. The cornea may develop an ulcer, a defect in the corneal surface that appears as a depressed or irregular area within the opacity. Bacterial infections spread deeper into the corneal stroma, causing more extensive damage and increasing pain. Severe keratitis can progress to descemetocele, a dangerous thinning of the cornea that precedes perforation, or to actual corneal perforation with leakage of intraocular contents. Chronic inflammation leads to permanent scarring that persists even after the active disease resolves.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate veterinary attention include any visible defect or depression in the corneal surface suggesting ulceration, rapid worsening of cloudiness or opacity, evidence of corneal perforation such as a collapsed appearance to the eye or visible change in eye shape, severe pain indicated by constant eye closure and reluctance to allow any examination, and any signs of systemic illness accompanying eye symptoms. Additionally, if the guinea pig has stopped eating or shows signs of GI stasis with reduced fecal output, emergency care is needed regardless of the underlying cause. Because keratitis can progress rapidly to vision-threatening complications, prompt veterinary evaluation is always recommended when this condition is suspected.

Initial examination of a guinea pig with suspected keratitis should be conducted by a veterinarian experienced in exotic animal medicine, ideally one with training in ophthalmology or access to specialist referral. The examination begins with obtaining a detailed history including the onset and progression of symptoms, environmental conditions, housing situation, diet including vitamin C intake, and any recent changes or potential exposures. A complete physical examination evaluates overall health status before focused ophthalmic assessment. Both eyes are examined carefully, comparing the affected eye to the normal eye and evaluating all ocular structures systematically.

Diagnostic tests for keratitis are essential for determining the cause and extent of corneal involvement. Fluorescein staining is perhaps the most important initial test, in which an orange dye is applied to the eye and illuminated with blue light to reveal any epithelial defects (ulcers) in the cornea—healthy epithelium does not retain the dye while damaged areas fluoresce bright green. Schirmer tear testing measures tear production to identify keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) as a contributing factor. If bacterial infection is suspected, samples may be collected for culture and sensitivity testing to identify the specific organism and guide antibiotic selection. Cytology, examining cells scraped from the corneal surface, can help differentiate bacterial, fungal, and inflammatory causes.

Differential diagnosis for corneal cloudiness or opacity in guinea pigs includes conditions that may appear similar to keratitis but require different treatment approaches. Corneal lipidosis, fatty deposits within the cornea, causes opacity without significant inflammation. Corneal dystrophy, an inherited condition, produces bilateral symmetrical opacities. Corneal edema from elevated intraocular pressure (glaucoma) causes haziness but the underlying cause is different. Cataracts involve the lens rather than the cornea but may appear as a similar cloudiness to inexperienced observers. Corneal scarring from previous injury may be mistaken for active keratitis. Accurate differentiation requires careful examination and appropriate diagnostic testing.

Confirmation of keratitis diagnosis and assessment of severity guides treatment planning and prognosis. The veterinarian will characterize the keratitis by its location, depth, and extent on the cornea. Superficial keratitis affecting only the epithelium carries a better prognosis than deep stromal involvement. The presence and size of any ulceration is documented, as ulcers require more aggressive treatment. Evidence of neovascularization indicates chronicity, as blood vessel ingrowth takes time to develop. Identification of the underlying cause, whether infectious, traumatic, or related to tear film abnormalities, is crucial for selecting appropriate treatment. The overall health status of the guinea pig and any concurrent conditions affecting the eye are factored into the treatment plan.

Emergency and immediate treatment for severe keratitis focuses on preventing progression to vision-threatening complications. Guinea pigs presenting with suspected corneal ulceration, evidence of deep infection, or significant pain require urgent intervention. Pain management with guinea pig-safe medications such as meloxicam provides comfort and reduces the inflammation contributing to tissue damage. If the guinea pig has stopped eating due to pain, assisted feeding with critical care formula is essential to prevent GI stasis, a life-threatening complication. An Elizabethan collar or other protective device may be necessary to prevent self-trauma from pawing at the painful eye. If corneal perforation is suspected or confirmed, emergency referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist may be indicated.

Medical management of bacterial keratitis requires appropriate antibiotic therapy, with critical attention to using only guinea pig-safe medications. Topical antibiotic drops or ointments form the foundation of treatment, with safe options including chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, tobramycin, and gentamicin preparations. Treatment frequency is typically high initially, often requiring application every two to four hours for serious infections, then gradually decreasing as the condition improves. It is absolutely critical to avoid penicillin-based antibiotics and other medications toxic to guinea pigs, including oral erythromycin and lincomycin, as these can cause fatal dysbiosis. Systemic antibiotics may be added for severe or deep infections, using safe options such as trimethoprim-sulfa or enrofloxacin.

Treatment of non-infectious keratitis varies based on the underlying cause. Keratitis secondary to dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) requires treatment aimed at restoring adequate tear film through artificial tear supplements and, in some cases, topical cyclosporine to stimulate tear production. Inflammatory keratitis without infection may benefit from topical anti-inflammatory medications, though corticosteroids must be used with extreme caution and never when ulceration is present, as they inhibit healing and can worsen infection. Keratitis from entropion or other anatomical abnormalities ultimately requires surgical correction of the underlying problem. Environmental causes necessitate identification and elimination of the offending irritant.

Supportive care is essential for successful keratitis treatment. Maintaining excellent nutrition with adequate vitamin C supplementation supports tissue healing and immune function—dosing at 50 mg per kilogram of body weight daily is appropriate during active illness. Keeping the environment clean, well-ventilated, and free of dust and irritants prevents additional corneal insult during healing. Temporary housing modifications may be needed to reduce irritant exposure, such as switching to paper-based bedding and removing hay racks that position hay near eye level. Maintaining appropriate humidity prevents corneal drying. Gentle cleaning of discharge from around the eye keeps the area comfortable and prevents secondary infection of surrounding tissues.

Alternative and complementary approaches may support conventional treatment under veterinary guidance. Warm compresses applied gently to closed eyelids may provide comfort and help loosen crusted discharge. Saline rinses help keep the eye clean and flush out irritants. Some holistic practitioners recommend colloidal silver or dilute honey solutions for their antimicrobial properties, though these should complement rather than replace appropriate antibiotic therapy and should only be used with veterinary approval. Ensuring a stress-free environment and maintaining social contact with companions supports immune function and overall wellbeing during recovery.

Treatment decisions depend on the type and severity of keratitis, presence of complications, underlying cause, and the individual guinea pig's condition and temperament. Mild, superficial keratitis may respond to topical therapy alone, while deep or ulcerative keratitis requires intensive treatment with frequent medication applications. The guinea pig's ability to tolerate handling and eye drop administration influences practical treatment planning. Response to initial therapy guides adjustment of the treatment protocol, with close monitoring required especially in the early days of treatment. The veterinarian will develop an individualized approach based on comprehensive assessment and will modify the plan as needed based on progress.

Recovery timeline for keratitis in guinea pigs varies considerably depending on the severity and type of corneal involvement. Superficial keratitis without ulceration may show improvement within several days and resolve within one to two weeks with appropriate treatment. Corneal ulcers typically require two to four weeks for complete epithelial healing, with deeper ulcers taking longer. Stromal keratitis with significant inflammatory involvement may require four to six weeks or longer for resolution. Throughout recovery, the appearance of the cornea often changes, with cloudiness potentially worsening initially as healing progresses before gradually clearing. Some degree of permanent scarring may remain visible even after active disease has resolved.

Post-treatment care is critical for successful recovery and prevention of complications or recurrence. Medication schedules must be followed precisely, with the full course of antibiotics completed even after the eye appears improved—stopping treatment early risks incomplete elimination of infection and development of antibiotic resistance. Follow-up examinations allow the veterinarian to assess healing progress and detect early signs of complications. Environmental factors that may have contributed to the keratitis should be permanently addressed to prevent recurrence. The guinea pig's eating habits and fecal output must be monitored throughout recovery, as any decrease could indicate developing GI stasis requiring immediate intervention.

Prognosis factors affecting recovery outcome include the initial depth and extent of corneal involvement, the underlying cause, timeliness of treatment initiation, and the guinea pig's overall health. Superficial keratitis treated promptly generally carries an excellent prognosis with complete resolution and no lasting vision impairment. Deep stromal keratitis, particularly with ulceration, has a more guarded prognosis and may result in permanent corneal scarring. Infectious causes require successful elimination of the pathogen, which depends partly on the organism's susceptibility to available safe antibiotics. Guinea pigs with adequate vitamin C status and strong immune function tend to heal more quickly and completely than deficient or compromised individuals.

Long-term outlook for guinea pigs that have experienced keratitis depends on whether full corneal clarity is restored or lasting scarring occurs. Many guinea pigs with mild to moderate keratitis achieve complete recovery with normal vision. Those with residual corneal scarring may have some degree of permanent vision impairment, though guinea pigs typically adapt well to partial visual compromise. A history of keratitis may indicate susceptibility to future episodes, particularly if underlying risk factors such as anatomical abnormalities, chronic dry eye, or environmental hazards are not addressed. With appropriate care, ongoing monitoring, and attention to predisposing factors, most guinea pigs that recover from keratitis enjoy good quality of life and normal lifespans.

Primary prevention of keratitis centers on minimizing corneal exposure to infectious agents, trauma, and irritants while maintaining optimal overall health. Adequate vitamin C intake is absolutely essential, as deficiency compromises tissue integrity and immune function, making guinea pigs more susceptible to corneal damage and infection. Fresh vegetables high in vitamin C should be provided daily, with supplementation as recommended by an exotic veterinarian. A balanced diet supporting overall health includes unlimited timothy hay, a variety of fresh vegetables, and appropriate quality pellets. Clean, fresh water must always be available, as adequate hydration supports healthy tear film production.

Environmental prevention measures significantly reduce keratitis risk. Bedding selection is crucial—dust-free options such as paper-based products, fleece liners, or kiln-dried pine shavings are preferable to dusty materials that can irritate the cornea. Hay should be provided in racks or containers that prevent guinea pigs from burying their faces directly into piles of loose hay with sharp stem ends. Regular cage cleaning prevents ammonia buildup that irritates ocular surfaces. Adequate ventilation without drafts maintains air quality while protecting against drying. Appropriate humidity levels, particularly important in climate-controlled indoor environments, prevent corneal drying.

Physical safety measures prevent traumatic keratitis. Cage design should eliminate sharp edges, wire components at face level, and protruding elements that could injure eyes. Accessories should be checked regularly for developing hazards. Proper guinea pig introductions and adequate housing space minimize aggressive encounters that can result in eye injuries. Guinea pigs should not be housed with rabbits or other species capable of causing injury. Nail trimming for all guinea pigs in a household reduces the risk of accidental scratches during normal social interaction. Supervised, safe floor time prevents encounters with household hazards.

Health maintenance practices support corneal health and facilitate early problem detection. Regular veterinary examinations with an exotic-experienced veterinarian, ideally every six to twelve months, include assessment of eye health. Daily observation of your guinea pig's eyes allows early detection of changes—any cloudiness, excessive tearing, squinting, or change in appearance warrants prompt attention. Addressing upper respiratory infections quickly prevents spread of bacteria to the eyes. Maintaining healthy body weight, appropriate social groupings, and low stress levels supports immune function and overall health.

Early intervention strategies are crucial for preventing mild corneal irritation from progressing to serious keratitis. Any sign of eye discomfort, including increased blinking, squinting, tearing, or rubbing at the face, should prompt close examination and consideration of veterinary consultation. If foreign material is visible on the eye surface, gentle irrigation with sterile saline may help flush it away, but any remaining irritation requires professional evaluation. Having an established relationship with an exotic veterinarian before problems arise ensures rapid access to appropriate care. Keeping basic supplies on hand, such as sterile saline for emergency eye flushing, enables immediate supportive care while arranging veterinary evaluation.

Daily management for a guinea pig with keratitis requires consistent attention to medication administration, monitoring, and environmental maintenance. Eye medication schedules must be followed precisely, which may mean administration every few hours during intensive treatment phases. Developing a gentle restraint routine and approaching the guinea pig calmly and consistently makes medication administration less stressful for both parties. Daily observation should note the appearance of the cornea (cloudiness, discharge, comfort level), the guinea pig's behavior, appetite, and activity level. Recording these observations helps track progress and provides valuable information for veterinary follow-up appointments.

Home environment modifications support healing and prevent additional corneal insult. The cage should be positioned away from drafty areas, direct sunlight, and heat sources that can dry the eyes. Bedding should be dust-free and kept clean to minimize irritant exposure—consider temporary use of fleece liners even if not normally used. Food and water containers should be positioned to minimize debris contact with the face. Hay should be offered in ways that reduce eye contact with sharp stems, such as in hay bags positioned at appropriate height. Adequate but not excessive lighting allows comfortable navigation while avoiding harsh brightness that may cause discomfort.

Quality of life maintenance remains important throughout treatment and recovery. Guinea pigs are social animals and should generally remain with their bonded companions during recovery, as isolation causes stress that can impair healing. Monitor interactions to ensure normal social behavior does not accidentally irritate the affected eye. Provide comfortable hiding spots where the guinea pig can rest while still being part of the social group. Gentle interaction with caregivers provides comfort and allows close monitoring. If vision is temporarily impaired, maintain consistent placement of food, water, and cage furniture to support confident navigation.

Ongoing monitoring and care extend beyond resolution of the acute episode. Regular weight checks ensure maintenance of healthy body condition. Continued daily observation of both eyes watches for signs of recurrence or development of problems in the previously unaffected eye. Long-term changes to the environment that eliminate identified risk factors should be permanent rather than temporary. Follow-up veterinary examinations as recommended ensure complete resolution and detect any developing complications. If the guinea pig experienced significant corneal scarring, ongoing monitoring for secondary issues such as chronic irritation of scarred areas is appropriate.

Caregiver support and resources help families successfully manage guinea pig eye conditions. Connecting with guinea pig communities provides access to practical tips and emotional support from others who have navigated similar situations. Maintaining open communication with the veterinary team ensures understanding of the treatment plan and expected timeline. Learning proper eye medication administration technique makes treatment less stressful. Having emergency veterinary contact information readily available provides peace of mind. Recognizing that caring for an ill pet can be stressful and seeking support when needed helps maintain the caregiver's ability to provide quality care throughout the treatment period.

Keratitis can affect guinea pigs of any breed, though certain physical characteristics may influence susceptibility. Guinea pigs with particularly prominent or protruding eyes have increased corneal exposure to environmental irritants and potential trauma, possibly elevating their keratitis risk. Long-haired breeds such as Peruvian, Silkie, and Coronet guinea pigs may be more prone to corneal irritation if facial hair contacts or grows toward the eye surface. Abyssinian guinea pigs with their distinctive rosette coat patterns sometimes have hair whorls directing fur toward the eyes. Breeds with flatter facial profiles may have altered tear drainage that could affect corneal health, though this has not been well-studied in guinea pigs.

General susceptibility considerations apply broadly across all guinea pig breeds. Any guinea pig housed in dusty or poorly maintained conditions faces increased risk regardless of breed characteristics. Individual variation in tear film quality and blink rate may influence susceptibility independent of breed. Guinea pigs with anatomical abnormalities of the eyelids, whether congenital or acquired, face increased keratitis risk from constant corneal irritation. Senior guinea pigs may have reduced tear production and altered corneal sensitivity. Young guinea pigs with developing immune systems may be more vulnerable to infectious keratitis.

Screening and prevention recommendations for breeders and caregivers emphasize environmental management and early detection across all breeds. Responsible breeders should examine breeding stock for eye abnormalities and avoid perpetuating traits that predispose to corneal problems. New guinea pigs entering a household should receive veterinary examination including eye assessment before joining existing groups. Regular observation of all guinea pigs' eyes as part of daily husbandry enables early detection of developing problems. Long-haired breeds require facial hair management to prevent eye irritation. All guinea pigs benefit from dust-free environments, appropriate humidity, and safe cage design that minimizes corneal trauma risk.

Several conditions commonly co-occur with or predispose guinea pigs to keratitis. Conjunctivitis, inflammation of the conjunctival membranes, frequently accompanies corneal involvement and may require concurrent treatment. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye) is both a cause of keratitis and a condition that may develop alongside it, as inadequate tear film leaves the cornea vulnerable to damage. Upper respiratory infections in guinea pigs often involve the nasolacrimal system and can spread bacteria to the eye, predisposing to infectious keratitis. Entropion, inward rolling of the eyelid margins, causes constant corneal irritation that frequently leads to keratitis. Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) compromises overall tissue health including the cornea.

Conditions with similar symptoms that may be confused with keratitis include several causes of cloudy or abnormal eye appearance. Cataracts cause a cloudy appearance but the opacity is in the lens rather than on the cornea. Glaucoma can cause corneal edema with cloudiness but the underlying problem is elevated intraocular pressure. Uveitis, inflammation inside the eye, may cause the eye to appear hazy. Corneal lipidosis produces white deposits in the cornea without active inflammation. Corneal dystrophy causes bilateral opacity patterns. Previous corneal scarring from healed injuries may appear similar to active keratitis. Accurate differentiation requires veterinary examination with appropriate diagnostic testing.

Potential complications of keratitis if untreated or inadequately managed can significantly impact eye health and vision. Progression from superficial to deep stromal involvement increases the risk of permanent damage. Corneal ulceration may develop, creating a defect in the corneal surface that can progress to perforation if untreated. Corneal perforation is an emergency that can result in loss of the eye. Extensive corneal neovascularization and scarring cause permanent vision impairment. Secondary bacterial infection can complicate initially non-infectious keratitis. Chronic keratitis may lead to descemetocele, dangerous thinning of the cornea, or symblepharon, adhesion between the conjunctiva and cornea. Secondary GI stasis may develop if pain causes the guinea pig to stop eating.